Ofada Stew

Ofada Stew is a delicious Nigerian stew made with a combination of meats and a special type of local peppers called “Ofada peppers” or “scotch bonnet peppers.” It is commonly served with Ofada rice, a locally grown rice variety. 

Ingredients:

• 500g assorted meats (such as beef, cow foot, tripe), precooked and tender
• 1 cup palm oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups blended Ofada peppers (or a mixture of scotch bonnet and bell peppers)
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
• 2 stock cubes (bouillon cubes)
• 1 teaspoon iru (locust bean)
• 4-5 green bell peppers, chopped
• 1 bunch of green vegetables (such as ugu leaves or spinach), washed and shredded
• Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Prep the Meats: Ensure that the assorted meats are precooked and tender. If not, cook them until they are well done. Cut the meats into bite-sized pieces and set them aside.
2. Blend the Ofada Peppers: If you have access to Ofada peppers, blend them to a smooth consistency. If not available, you can use a mixture of scotch bonnet and bell peppers for a similar flavor and heat.
3. Heat the Palm Oil: In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat until it is hot but not smoking.
4. Sauté the Onions: Add the chopped onions to the hot oil and sauté until they become translucent.
5. Add the Blended Peppers: Pour the blended Ofada peppers (or the scotch bonnet and bell pepper mixture) into the pot with the sautéed onions. Stir well to combine.
6. Cook the Stew: Add the precooked assorted meats to the pot and mix them with the pepper mixture. Allow the stew to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season the Stew: Add the ground crayfish, stock cubes, and iru (locust bean) to the pot. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly. Continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Add the Bell Peppers: Add the chopped green bell peppers to the stew and stir. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the peppers are slightly tender but still vibrant in color.
9. Add the Green Vegetables: Finally, add the shredded green vegetables (ugu leaves or spinach) to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate them into the stew. Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables wilt.
10. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the Ofada Stew and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
11. Serve: Ofada Stew is traditionally served with Ofada rice or any other rice variety of your choice. Enjoy the stew alongside the rice, and you can also serve it with plantains, boiled eggs, or fried fish for added flavor and variety.

Ofada Stew is known for its rich flavor, spiciness, and the distinctive taste of Ofada peppers. It is a delightful dish that showcases the unique flavors of Nigerian cuisine.